Waitrose is introducing complimentary treat vouchers for customers as part of a significant update to its myWaitrose loyalty program. The “Little Treat” vouchers are currently being piloted in 18 stores and are unlocked when a shopper reaches spending thresholds of £50, £100, and £250. This initiative allows Waitrose customers to receive up to three vouchers monthly, with the count resetting at the beginning of each month.
These vouchers can be redeemed for free items or discounts on future supermarket purchases. Notably, the introduction of “Little Treats” does not replace existing benefits of the loyalty scheme, such as complimentary hot drinks, discounts on selected service counter items on specific days, and promotions on Uber Eats.
Nathan Ansell, Waitrose’s chief customer officer, expressed, “We are continuously enhancing our My Waitrose loyalty club to better serve our members. ‘Little Treats’ aims to consistently show appreciation to our loyal customers by offering something delightful, practical, or uplifting. Throughout the year, they can anticipate various treats, reinforcing the special connection they have as My Waitrose members and food enthusiasts.”
Recently, Waitrose initiated a program where customers can borrow a reusable coffee cup while claiming their free drink. Customers are required to return the cup within a week to a designated drop-off location; otherwise, they face a £3 fee. This service was initially trialed in nine stores and is accessible by scanning a MyWaitrose card.
Customers still have the option to use their own cup, provided it fits under the self-service machine nozzle. Last year in January, Waitrose reintroduced complimentary tea and coffee for loyalty cardholders, even if they do not make a purchase at the store.
The company notified customers via email about this update, stating, “You can now enjoy your free hot drink without any prior purchase in-store. Remember to bring your reusable cup!” Previously, myWaitrose members were required to make a purchase to claim their complimentary beverage.
In a notable development, Waitrose announced plans to open its first full-size supermarket in seven years. The John Lewis Partnership, the parent company, disclosed a multi-million-pound agreement to expand the supermarket division further. The new store is scheduled to open in Brabazon, a new town in North Bristol, by 2027, in collaboration with YTL Developments, creating approximately 150 job opportunities in the 30,000 square foot establishment.